Non-contact strip speed measurement using an electrostatic sensor array and data fusion technique

In the production and manufacturing industries, speed measurement plays a significant part in condition monitoring and motion control of mechanical machinery. During operation, the friction between the sliding part and the air generates electrostatic charge that can be used for measurement of the linear speed. This paper deals with non-contact measurement of strip speed using electrostatic sensing and cross correlation techniques. Experiments were carried out on a purpose-built test rig. Experimental results show that accurate measurement can be achieved over the range of 2 to 10 m/s. The system performs better for higher strip speed and shorter distance between the sensor array and the strip.